BOISE, ID — Governor Brad Little has officially proclaimed May 25–31 as “Safe Driver Week” in Idaho, aligning with the start of the “100 Deadliest Days” — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal traffic crashes typically spike nationwide.
The proclamation emphasizes the need for public awareness and education to combat factors contributing to roadway deaths, such as distracted, impaired, drowsy, and aggressive driving, as well as failure to use seat belts. The effort is spearheaded by AAA Idaho as part of its broader campaign to improve driver safety across the state.
“No matter your mode of travel, everyone wants a safe and joyful journey from Point A to Point B,” said AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde. “By dedicating five days to addressing some of the riskiest behavior, we hope drivers will take proactive steps to break any bad habits.”
Throughout Safe Driver Week, AAA Idaho will focus on a different dangerous driving behavior each day:
- Monday, May 26: Distracted Driving — From 2020 to 2024, distracted driving contributed to 14% of all fatal crashes in Idaho, with 49 lives lost last year alone. AAA urges drivers to put away phones and other distractions while on the road.
- Tuesday, May 27: Impaired Driving — Impairment played a role in 41% of fatal crashes during the same five-year span, resulting in 502 deaths. Drivers are encouraged to plan for sober transportation in advance.
- Wednesday, May 28: Drowsy Driving — More than 3,100 crashes and 31 fatalities were linked to drowsy driving between 2020 and 2024. Despite broad awareness, many drivers still admit to getting behind the wheel when dangerously tired.
- Thursday, May 29: Aggressive Driving — Preliminary data shows that nearly half of serious injury crashes involved aggressive behaviors such as speeding and tailgating. AAA advises maintaining a safe following distance and driving defensively.
- Friday, May 30: Seat Belt Usage — While most Idahoans buckle up, 88 unbelted individuals died in crashes last year. AAA reminds all vehicle occupants to use seat belts consistently.
AAA will also launch a series of social media posts throughout the week to raise awareness, using the hashtag #SafeDriverWeek.
“The summer is filled with so many adventures and wonderful possibilities,” Conde added. “Let’s all do our part to prevent it from ending in tragedy.”
For more information or to access an audio version of this release, call the AAA News Hotline at 208-342-9391 in Boise or 1-800-999-9391 outside the area.
